In the wake of the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two cabinet ministers, President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah to serve in acting capacities for Defence and Environment, Science and Technology, respectively.
The announcement, issued on Thursday, August 7, 2025, by Felix Kwakye Ofosu—Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications—follows the tragic death of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The two were among eight individuals killed in a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crash en route to an official event in Obuasi.
“President John Dramani Mahama has asked the Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to take on additional responsibility as Defence Minister.
The President has also asked the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, to act as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology until further notice,” the statement read.
The crash, which occurred on August 6 near Adansi-Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region, has plunged the nation into mourning.
All eight victims—including senior government officials and military personnel—were confirmed dead and their remains transported to Accra for state preparations.
President Mahama has declared a three-day national mourning period, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast across the country.
All official engagements have been suspended for the remainder of the week.
The temporary appointments ensure continuity in government operations as investigations into the crash continue and preparations begin for the state funerals of the deceased officials.
Both acting ministers are expected to assume their additional responsibilities immediately while maintaining their current portfolios.
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